Srinagar, Jan 1: On the inauguration of Road Traffic Safety Week, the District Development Commissioner, Srinagar, Me’raj Ahmad Kakroo, on Friday said traffic mishaps were a major cause of concern as “traffic accidents in 2009 claimed more lives than the violence in the Valley.”
 He said there was a need to educate and aware people about the traffic rules, and also to initiate tough action against the offenders.
 Special Mobile Magistrate, Muhammad Ashraf Malik suggested that the Motors Vehicles Act be amended to give it more teeth. 
 “People are ready to pay the fine because it is very nominal. Among the sections of the MV Act, section 177, 181 need to be amended,” he said.
 The City Mayor, Salamn Ali Sagar in his address said the SMC would help cops in traffic management.
 Speaking at the inaugural function of the week organized by JK Traffic Police, Sagar said the SMC would “support the traffic police in its drive against encroachments, illegal parking”.
 “A collective effort is needed to improve the traffic system in the valley. I urge all the stake holders, including traffic police, transporters, government and non Government agencies, to put an end to blame game regarding traffic mess,” he added.
 The Mayor said strict action would be taken against shopkeepers showcasing their goods on streets.
 The DIG Traffic Kashmir, Muneer Khan, SP traffic, Showkat Hussain, Regional Transport Officer, Anees Ahmad; Vice-chairman Srinagar Development Authority, Syed Kifayat Rizvi were also present on the occasion.

Lastupdate on : Fri, 1 Jan 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Fri, 1 Jan 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Sat, 2 Jan 2010 00:00:00 IST